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UBC Theses and Dissertations

Case study of 3D modelling and building system coordination : subtitle process and knowledge Tabesh, Abdorreza

Abstract

Building system coordination is a complicated process that requires the detailed layout and configuration of the various systems such that it complies with design, construction, and operations criteria. Current practice involves an iterative process of overlaying transparent 2D drawings of each system over a light table to identify potential design conflicts and constructability issues, which is a time-consuming and error-prone process. Recent research efforts aim at development of knowledge-based systems to capture, classify, and utilize the specialty knowledge in a retrievable format, and further assist the MEP coordination process. This thesis presents a case study that investigated the building systems coordination process using 3D models during design and construction of a complex research facility. The objectives of the research were: (1) to document and evaluate the 3D MEP coordination process and (2) to collect and classify the design and construction knowledge utilized in modelling and coordinating building systems. I modelled and coordinated a variety of building systems in 3D, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. I documented the 3D modelling and coordination process, evaluated existing software tools support of this process, documented the resources required to execute this process, and assessed the impact of the 3D models on the coordination process. Over a two-month period, I modelled over 800 m2 of laboratory and corridor space. I identified and resolved 25 design errors, omissions, and inconsistencies, and identified and avoided 25 MEP coordination issues and conflicts. Throughout this case study, I also identified the design and construction knowledge utilized to create a coordinated and constructable design. I classified this knowledge in a framework instantiated by examples and concepts found in this study. The framework associates the design and construction constraints that govern the modelling and coordination process with the knowledge domain, the domain context, and the specific modelling and coordination task. The main contributions of the research are the evaluation of the 3D coordination process and the identification and classification of building system coordination knowledge.

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